Comparison of serum HER-2/neu between trastuzumab-based regimen and anthyracycline-based regimen during neoadjuvant chemotherapy in advanced primary breast cancer

e11582

Background: Serum Her-2/neu has been known as molecular surrogating marker of predicting treatment response in Her-2 positive breast cancer. We compare the change of serum Her-2/neu during neoadjuvant chemotherapy between trastuzumab(H) and anthyracyline(A) based treatment. Methods: All breast cancers were tested by immunohistochemical stain and FISH for Her-2/neu before treatment. Serum Her-2/neu was twice measured by Chemiluminescence immunoassay(ADVIA centaurTMsystem) before neoadjuvant chemotherapy and before operation. The cutoff value was 10.2 mg/ml according to previous study. Pathologic complete response (pCR) was considered as no residual tumor or remnant ductal carcinoma in situ, partial response (PR) was less than 50% decrease in maximal diameter in pathologic tumor size. Results: Serum Her-2/neu of trastuzumab group was more decreased than of anthyracyline group (H; 12.9 ± 14.5 ng/mL vs. A; 2.2 ± 1.2 ng/mL, p=0.024). In trastuzumab group, pCR was relatively correlated with decrease of serum Her-2/neu (PR: 0.8 ± 0.84 ng/ml vs. pCR: 21.1 ± 13.2 ng/ml, p=0.08). Conclusions: A decrease in serum Her-2/neu levels during treatment was associated with pathologic response in patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy, particularly, trastuzumab-based regimen. Serum Her-2/neu levels may serve to monitoring neoadjuvant therapy in Her-2/neu positive breast cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Induction chemotherapy followed by concurrent chemoradiotherapy with/without esophagectomy for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

e15526

Background: To assess the feasibility of preoperative induction chemotherapy in addition to concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) followed by esophagectomy if possible for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) with a special emphasis on M1a or nodal M1b disease. Methods: Patients who had histologic proof of T3N1M0, M1a, or nodal M1b ESCC first received up to 3 courses of induction chemotherapy (paclitaxel 70 mg/m2 or docetaxel 40 mg/m2 IV 1-hr D 1, 8; cisplatin 35 mg/m2 IV 2-hr D 1, 8; 5-fluorouracil 2000 and leucovorin 300 mg/m2 IV 24-hr D 1, 8; repeated every 28 days). This was followed by CCRT (paclitaxel 35 mg/m2 1-hr D 1, 4 /wk, cisplatin 15 mg/m2 1-hr D 2, 5/wk, and radiotherapy 2 Gy D 1–5 /wk) (Lin CC et al. Ann Oncol 18:93–8,2007). When the accumulated radiation dose reached 40 Gy, the feasibility of esophagectomy was evaluated in all patients. In patients for whom esophagectomy was not feasible, CCRT was continued to a dose of 60 Gy. Results: Fifty-six patients (M:F = 51:5, median age 58, range 41–78) with locally advanced (T3N1M0:M1a:M1b[nodal] = 30:7:19) ESCC (upper:mid:lower = 15:25:16) were enrolled from June 22, 2006 to December 17, 2008. By December 31, 2008, 10 patients are still under protocol treatment. Eighteen (T3N1:M1a:M1b[nodal] = 14:3:1) (40%) and 20 of 46 patients underwent surgery and continued CCRT up to 60 Gy, respectively. Nine (T3N1:M1a:M1b[nodal] = 7:2:0) (20%) and 5 patients had pathologic complete response and microscopic residual disease, respectively. With a median follow-up of 8.4 months (range 0.5–30.8), 17 (T3N1:M1a:M1b[nodal] = 9:2:6) patients had relapse. Four and 13 patients had local recurrence and distant metastasis, respectively. The median progression-free survival was 20.3 months. The median overall survival had not reached yet with 1- and 2-year overall survival being 76 and 57%, respectively. There was no difference in progression- free or overall survival among patients with T3N1M0, M1a, or nodal M1b disease. Conclusions: Three-step strategy of preoperative taxane-based induction chemotherapy then CCRT followed by esosphagectomy if possible appears quite active in locally advanced ESCC patients with 46% having M1a or nodal M1b disease.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Randomized phase II study of gefitinib alone or with simvastatin in previously treated advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

8057

Background: Statins reduce not only serum cholesterol levels but also mevalonate synthesis by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase. Mevalonate is a precursor of several cellular major products including dolichol, geranylpyrophosphate (GPP) and farnesyl-pyrophosphate (FPP). Dolichol has a stimulatory effect on DNA synthesis and is linked to several tumor cell proteins. GPP and FPP cause isoprenylation of Ras and Rho those regulate signal transduction of several membrane receptors crucial for cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, which result in resistance to gefitinib. Thus depletion of mevalonate metabolites may enhance gefitinib activity in NSCLC. This study compared gefitinib alone with gefitinib plus simvastatin in patients with recurrent NSCLC after at least one chemotherapy. Methods: Between May 2006 and September 2008, 107 patients (51% male, 74% adenocarcinoma, 50% never-smoker, 54% more than two prior regimens) were randomly assigned to gefitinib alone (250 mg/d orally, n=53) or gefitinib plus simvastatin (250mg/d and 40 mg/d orally, respectively, n=54). A cycle was considered as 4 weeks of treatment. Therapy was continued until disease progression or intolerable toxicities. The primary end point was to assess response rate. Secondary end points included time to progression and survival. Median follow-up was 10.1 months. Results: Efficacy was similar for gefitinib and gefitinib plus simvastatin groups. Objective tumor response rates (RR) were 31.5% (95% CI, 19.1 to 43.9) and 32.1% (95% CI, 19.5 to 44.7); median PFS were 1.9 and 2.0 months; and median OS were 9.5 and 12.7 months, respectively. In subgroup analysis, gefitinib plus simvastatin showed a trend for higher RR than gefitinib alone in non-adenocarcinoma group (38.5% vs. 7.7%, p=0.08). Adverse events at both arms were generally mild (grade 1 or 2) and consisted mainly of skin reactions. Conclusions: Gefitinib combined with simvastatin did not improved efficacy compared to gefitinib alone in this unselected patient population, but showed a trend for higher efficacy in non-adenocarcinoma patients. Although it is preliminary, gefitinib combined with simvastatin showed slightly increased OS. Updated survival data will be presented.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Regulatory role of p53 in cancer metabolism through SCO2 and TIGAR in human breast cancer

e22128

Background: Cancer cells showed higher rate of anaerobic respiration than normal cells. The exact mechanisms for this higher rate of glycolysis in cancer cells remain to be elucidated. Recent researches suggest that p53, the most commonly mutated tumor suppressor gene, might play an important roles in the regulation of energy generating metabolic pathways that switch from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis through synthesis of cytochrome C oxidase 2 (SCO2) and TP53-induced glycolysis and apoptotic regulator (TIGAR). Methods: We investigated the expression of p53, SCO2, TIGAR and cytochrome C oxidase (COX) in 95 cases of invasive ductal carcinoma using immunohistochemistry. Results: Overexpression of p53, SCO2, TIGAR and COX was observed in 27.4% (26 cases), 82.1% (78 cases), 76.8% (73 cases), and 77.9% (74 cases) respectively. Overexpression of p53 was significantly associated with decreased expression of SCO2 (p=0.009), COX (p=0.001) and TIGAR (p=0.03). Conclusions: These results suggest that p53 can modulate the metabolic pathways via SCO2 and TIGAR in human breast cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Genetic and proteomic features associated with survival after treatment with erlotinib in first-line therapy of non-small cell lung cancer

8089

Background: An improved understanding of molecular features of cancers and cancer patients associated with benefit from targeted therapies could allow the rational personalization of therapies to increase the probability of efficacy and decrease toxicity and cost. Multiple biomarkers have been proposed for predicting benefit after therapy with EGF receptor targeted therapies in first line colon and second line lung cancer therapy. Methods: In this study, we analyzed available tumor and serum samples from ECOG 3503, a single arm phase II study of erlotinib in first line lung cancer, for mutations in Kras and EGFR, as well as the previously described serum MALDI proteomic classifier (Veristrat). Out of 137 enrolled patients, there were 93 serum samples and 43 tumor samples available. Results: Molecular analysis of a subset of tumors from patients enrolled in ECOG 3503 shows that 10/43 (23%) contained Kras mutations and 3/43 (7%) harbored EGFR mutations. Classification of the 93 available sera for the pattern of proteins previously published as associated with survival after treatment with gefitinib identified 68/93 (73%) as predicted to be “good” and 25/93 (27%) predicted to have poor survival. Of the 6 responders with available serum, 5 were classified as MALDI good. Correlation with survival demonstrated a highly statistically significant correlation with MALDI status (p < 0.001), and a marginally significant association of EGFR mutation with survival (p = 0.05), but no correlation with ras mutation status. Median survival was 10.8 months in MALDI good patients and 3.9 in MALDI poor patients. MALDI status was independent of both ras and EGFR mutation status. Conclusions: Thus, in distinct contrast to colon cancer, ras gene mutations do not appear to be associated with survival after first line EGFR-targeted therapy in lung cancer. The previously defined MALDI predictor is potent and highly clinically significantly associated with survival after first line treatment with erlotinib, and is independent of mutations in ras and EGFR in this dataset.

[Table: see text]

A phase I/II study of combination therapy of S-1 and irinotecan in patients with previously untreated metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer

e15023

Background: To investigate S-1 and irinotecan (CPT-11) combination as an alternative to infusional 5- fluorouracil/leucovorin plus CPT-11, we performed a phase I/II trial to determine maximum tolerated dose (MTD), efficacy and toxicity in metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer. In addition, we evaluated the association between genotypes of candidate genes and phenotypes. Methods: S-1 was administered orally at a dose of 70 mg/m2 (level I-III) or 80 (IV and V) from day 1 to 14. CPT-11 was given i.v. on day 1, stepping up to 175 (level I), 200 (II), 225 (III and IV) or 250 (V) mg/m2 . The treatment was repeated every 3 weeks. The association of the UGT1A1 genotypes (*6, *28, and *60) and CYP2A6 genotypes (*4, *7, and *9) with toxicities or efficacy were analyzed in patients who participated in phase II portion. Results: Twenty-three patients entered the phase I and 30 enrolled in phase II study. The MTD of S-1 and CPT-11 was considered to be 80 mg/m2 and 250 mg/m2, respectively. The dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were diarrhea and neutropenia. The recommended dose (RD) was determined at a S-1 dose of 80 mg/m2 and a CPT- 11 dose of 225 mg/m2. The overall response rate was 66.7% (95% CI, 48.7–84.6) at the RD level. Median time to progression was 7.6 months (95 % CI, 5.7–9.5). Median survival time was not reached. Grade3–4 neutropenia was observed in 53.4% of the patients. Grade 3–4 nonhematologic toxicities were diarrhea (16.7%) and asthenia (6.7%). The frequencies of UGT1A1*60, *28, and *6 allele were 25.8%, 10.3%, and 15.5%, respectively. Homozygous for *28 or *6 were not observed. All three double heterozygous for *28 and *6 experienced grade 3–4 neutropenia. The allele frequencies of CYP2A6*4, *7, and *9 were 15.5%, 8.6%, and 29.3%, respectively. There were no association between CYP2A6 genotypes and response rates or toxicities. Conclusions: The combination of S-1 and CPT-11 was effective and had manageable toxicities in patients with metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer.

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Triple detection method for sentinel lymph node detection

e11605

Background: Sentinel lymph node biopsy is widely accepted method to determine nodal stage of breast cancer. There are several reported method for detecting sentinel lymph node. The aim of this study was to show the new detection method of sentinel lymph node and show the effectiveness of this method. Methods: We did prospective study and enrolled 25 patients who underwent partial mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy. We injected indigocyanine green (green dye) at peritumoral lesion, indigocarmine dye (blue dye) in subareolar area and radioisotope (Tc-99m) injection. Sentinel lymph nodes are identified by color change or radioisotope uptake, and classified by each color (blue or green) and radioisotope uptake. We compared the detection rate from our study with that from the previous studies. Results: Sentinel lymph nodes were detected in all patients (25/25). Green color stained sentinel lymph nodes were identified in 18 patients (18/25), blue color stained sentinel lymph nodes were identified in 15 patients (15/25) and radioactive lymph nodes were identified in 19 patients (19/25). Conclusions: The triple mapping method showed higher detection rate than the previous studies and this method is recommendable to detect sentinel lymph node.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A randomized phase II trial of weekly docetaxel plus either cisplatin or oxaliplatin in patients with previously untreated advanced gastric cancer: Preliminary results

4566

Background: Docetaxel, in combination with cisplatin or oxaliplatin, has demonstrated efficacy against AGC. This randomized phase II trial evaluated two weekly docetaxel-based regimens to see which would be most promising according to objective response rate (ORR) as first-line therapy in AGC. Methods: Chemotherapy-naïve patients with measurable unresectable and/or metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma and a performance status ≤2 were randomly assigned to receive docetaxel (35 mg/m2) weekly on days 1 and 8 of a 21-day cycle plus either cisplatin (60 mg/m2 on day 1) (arm A) or oxaliplatin (120 mg/m2 on day 1) (arm B). Toxicity was assessed on days 1, 8, and 21 of each cycle, and response was evaluated every 2 cycles. Results: Between March 2007 and December 2008, 61 eligible patients entered. In Arm A, 29 patients were evaluable for objective response and 31 for safety. In Arm B, 28 patients were evaluable for objective response and 30 for safety. Median age was 52 years and disease status was comparable for both arms. Ten of 29 (34.5%) patients had a confirmed objective response in the arm A (95% confidence interval [CI] 17.1–51.8%) and 11 of 28 (39.2%) patients had a confirmed objective response in the arm B (95% CI 21.1- 57.2%). No significant difference was noted between the arms both for ORR (p=0.202) or for disease control (58.6% and 82.1%, respectively, p=0.082). Median progression free survival time was 4.4 month in the arm A and 4.3 months in the arm B (Hazard ratio = 0.936; 95% CI, 0.503–1.744; p = 0.836). There was no relevant difference in the occurrence of overall grade ¾ toxicity between the two arms (51.6% vs. 46.6%, respectively; p=0.800). Neutropenia was the most common grade 3/4 toxicity (32.3% vs. 36.6%, respectively). There was one treatment related death in Arm B. Conclusions: The preliminary results showed that both treatment arms have similar clinical efficacy as front-line treatment in AGC. Each regimen has a manageable tolerability profile. The accrual is ongoing.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Risk stratification by hormonal receptor (ER, PgR) and HER2 status in small (≤1cm) invasive breast cancer: Who might be a possible candidate for adjuvant treatment?

564

Background: With the increasing use of screening mammography, the proportion of ≤ 1 cm invasive breast cancer is increasing. Identification of breast cancer molecular subtypes has resulted in a better appreciation of the biologic heterogeneity, which is not fully explained by clinicopathologic features including staging system. The aims of this study were: 1) to identify the risk factors of systemic metastases in patients with ≤ 1 cm invasive breast cancer and 2) to investigate the patients group at greatest risk of such failure even in these small tumors. Method: Data were collected retrospectively in the breast cancer registry of our institution for patients with invasive breast cancer from October 1994 to December 2004. Results: Of 4,036 patients who received curative breast cancer surgery, 466 patients who had T1a or T1b breast cancer were identified. 39 patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy were excluded in this study. Ipsilateral axillary lymph node involvement was found in 13% (57/427) at the time of surgery. Axillary lymph node involvement was much more common in HER-2 positive group (33% vs 11%, p < 0.0001) and triple negative (TN) group (24% vs 11%, p = 0.002) than in hormone receptor positive group. During median 61 months of follow-up, overall 10 year estimated distant relapse-free survival (DRFS) and overall survival (OS) were 95% and 92%, respectively. Multivariate analysis was conducted in 370 (T1aN0, T1bN0) patients, who had no lymph node involvement. In Cox-regression model, HER-2 positivity and triple negativity were identified as independent prognostic factors to predict DRFS [Hazard ratio (HR) 8.8, p = 0.003 for HER-2 positive group; HR 5.1, p = 0.026 for TN group] and OS (HR 5.0, p = 0.067 for HER-2 positive group; HR 11.1, p = 0.017 for TN group) in T1bN0 tumors. Limiting to T1aN0 tumors, statistical significance was not maintained. Conclusions: Even though T1aN0 and T1bN0 tumors have been known to have a relative low risk of systemic failure, anti-HER-2 directed therapy for HER-2 positive group and new innovative adjuvant systemic treatment for TN group in patients with T1bN0 tumor should be considered. Prospective adjuvant trials should be warranted in these subgroups of patients.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase I dose-finding study of sorafenib in combination with capecitabine and cisplatin as a first-line treatment in patients with advanced gastric cancer

4559

Background: We conducted a phase I dose-finding study of sorafenib (S) in combination with capecitabine (X) and cisplatin (P) in patients with previously untreated metastatic or inoperable advanced gastric cancer. Methods: Four dose levels of S, X, and P combination were tested. The doses of S (p.o. daily), X (p.o. on days 1–14), and P (i.v. on day 1) were escalated at the following schedule; level 1: S 400 mg/d, X 1,600 mg/m2/d, P 80 mg/m2; level 2: S 800 mg/d, X 1,600 mg/m2/d, P 80 mg/m2; level 3: S 800 mg/d, X 2,000 mg/m2/d, P 80 mg/m2; level 1A: S 800 mg/d, X 1,600 mg/m2/d, P 60 mg/m2. The cycle was repeated every 3 weeks. Dose limiting toxicities (DLTs) were evaluated only in the first cycles and a standard 3+3 dose escalation design was implemented. Results: A total 21 pts were enrolled in the study. No DLTs were observed at dose level 1 (n=3). One DLT (grade 3 diarrhea) was noted at dose level 2 (n=6), and 2 DLTs (two grade 4 neutropenias longer than 5 days in duration) were observed at dose level 3 (n=6), which made the level 3 dose the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). However, at cycle 2 and thereafter at dose level 2, the relative dose intensity (RDI) of S and X could not be maintained (mostly below 80%) due to the frequent dose reductions and cycle delays. So, we explored a new dose level (1A) between dose level 1 and 2. Since no DLTs were found in 6 patients at level 1A with RDI mostly above 80% throughout the treatment period, level 1A was determined as recommended dose (RD). Most frequent grade 3 and 4 hematologic toxicities were neutropenia (25.0% of cycles), and most frequent grade 2 and 3 non-hematologic toxicities were hand-foot syndrome (9.4%), asthenia (7.0%), and anorexia (5.5%). The objective responses were confirmed in 10 out of 16 patients with measurable lesions (62.5%; 95% CI, 38.8–86.2%). With a median follow-up of 8.1 months, estimated median progression-free survival was 10.0 months (95% CI, 1.6–18.4 months) and median overall survival has not been reached. Conclusions: Diarrhea and neutropenia were DLTs in this S, X, and P combination. The dose schedule of sorafenib 400 mg po bid daily with capecitabine 800 mg/m2 po bid on days 1–14, and cisplatin 60 mg/m2 iv on day 1 in every 3 weeks is recommended for further development in AGC.

[Table: see text]

The role of prophylactic antimicrobials during autologous stem cell transplantation: A single center experience

7105

Background: The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis during autologous peripheral stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Methods: We searched Asan Medical Center Registry for NHL and MM: Total 114 cases received antimicrobial prophylaxis; while 118 cases did not receive antimicrobial prophylaxis during ASCT. Results: In prophylaxis group, 80 of 114 (70.2%) patients had experienced febrile episodes at median day +6 after transplantation with a statistically significant difference (P<0.001). In no-prophylaxis group, 111 of 118 (94.1%) patients had experienced at median day +5. Documented infection occurred in 14 of 114 (12.3%) patients in prophylaxis group, and 16 of 118 (13.6%) patients in no-prophylaxis group (P=0.846). In these patients, the positive blood culture was seen in 12 (10.5%) of 114 patients in prophylaxis group, and 12 (10.7%) of 118 patients in no-prophylaxis group (P=1.000). Documented viral infection or reactivation was not observed in prophylaxis group, but observed in 4 patients of no-prophylaxis group. Both groups showed no invasive fungal infection or serious adverse event during ASCT. The day of infection resolved was a median day +15 (range, 3–29) in prophylaxis group and day +14 (range, 2–70) in no-prophylaxis group (P=0.945). The duration of antimicrobial treatment was median 10 days both in prophylaxis group and in no-prophylaxis group (P=0.565). Conclusions: In our experience, the antimicrobial prophylaxis seems to decrease the incidence of febrile episodes during ASCT, but seems to have no beneficial effect on reducing infectious complications. The antimicrobial prophylaxis of our study did not show the difference in the detection of causative organism as an infective agent, duration of antimicrobial therapy and hospitalization between two groups.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Prognostic significance of preoperative serum tumor markers in the patients with curatively resected advanced gastric cancers

e15515

Background: We evaluated the prognostic significance of preoperative tumor markers, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), carbohydrate antigen 19–9 (CA19–9), and carbohydrate antigen 72–4 (CA72–4), in the patients with curatively resected advanced gastric cancers (AGC). Methods: Preoperative serum tumor markers were available for 667 patients who had been enrolled in a phase III trial of adjuvant chemotherapy (AMC0201). We compared the relapse free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) according to patient's pre-treatment clinical characteristics and serum tumor markers by using log rank test and Cox proportional hazard model. Results: Of total 667 patients, 3 year RFS rate and OS rate were 67.4% and 75.0%, respectively. Postoperative pathologic stage was II in 353 (52.9%), IIIA in 202 (30.3%), IIIB in 61 (9.1%), and IV (M0) in 51 (7.6%). CEA, CA19–9, CA72–4 were elevated pre-operatively in 64 of 665 patients (9.6%), 75 of 664 patients (11.3%), and 121 of 639 patients (18.9%), respectively. After the median follow-up of 38.4 months, 209 patients (31.3%) had recurrence, and 164 patients (24.6%) died. In the univariate analysis, location of tumor, type of surgery, Borrmann type, TNM stage, the elevation of CEA and CA72–4 level were significant prognostic factors for RFS and OS. In the multivariate analysis, serum CA72–4 was independent significant prognostic factor for RFS and OS as well as tumor location, Borrmann type, and stage Conclusions: Pre-operative serum CEA and CA72–4 levels were independent prognostic factors as well as clinical characteristics of pathologic stage, tumor location and Borrmann type in patients with curatively resected AGC.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Definitive chemoradiation therapy with capecitabine in locally advanced pancreatic cancer

e15558

Background: We evaluated safety and efficacy of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) with capecitabine in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC). We also tried to devise a prognostic model for LAPC undergoing definitive CCRT. Methods: Between January 2004 and January 2008, 39 patients with LAPC treated with capecitabine CCRT were reviewed. Capecitabine was administered at 850 mg/m2 bid every day for 5 weeks. Radiotherapy was given 5 days per week, at 1.8 Gy fractions, over the 5 weeks. Results: Thirty seven (94.8%) patients completed CCRT, and 2 patients removed during the treatment for toxicity issues. Of the 36 evaluable patients, 15 (41.7 %) patients achieved partial response, and 13 (36.1 %) had a stable disease with 77.8% of disease control rate. Among the 28 patients who had achieved disease control after CCRT, 8 patients (21.6 %) received gemcitabine-based post-CCRT chemotherapy without dose reduction or delay. With median 1.8 years of follow- up, the overall survival was 14.3 months (95% confidence interval [CI]; 10.6–17.9 months). Median progression free survival was 11.1 (95% CI 7.2–15.1) for all patients, and 7.9 months (95% CI 6.6–9.2) for those not received post-CCRT chemotherapy. No patient had grade 4 hematologic or non-hematologic toxicity. Eight patients (21.6%) had severe grade 3 toxicities, 7 (18.9%) with gastrointestinal toxicity and 1 (2.7%) with hematologic toxicity. Prognostic factors for survival were serum albumin (P=0.014; relative risk [RR], 3.4; 95% CI, 1.4, 8.6), and adjuvant gemcitabine treatment (P = 0.005; RR, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.2, 10.6). The prognostic grouping resulted in three groups with significantly different prognosis: group 1 (0 adverse factor; n=8; 1-year survival, 87.5%), group 2 (1 adverse factor; n=23; 1-year survival, 52.9%) and group 3 (2 adverse factors; n=8; 1-year survival, 25.0%). Conclusions: Combined therapy with capecitabine CCRT was well tolerated. Capecitabine seems to be a promising regimen in the treatment of LAPC, in terms of response, survival, and tolerable adverse effects.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

The prognostic significance of the number of extranodal sites in the patients with disseminated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated with R-CHOP

8570

Background: The combination of rituximab and CHOP chemotherapy (R-CHOP) has improved survival of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Recently, several reports have shown that standard International Prognostic Index (IPI) became less powerful prognostic predictor in patients with DLBCL in the era of R-CHOP. We evaluated the prognostic factors of DLBCL patients treated with R-CHOP. Detailed analysis was planned regarding the number of extranodal sites because of its higher frequency in Korea. Methods: Between January 2002 and May 2008, 126 patients with stage III/IV DLBCL treated with R-CHOP were identified. We performed the retrospective analysis of the clinicopathologic factors and verified the predictive power of standard IPI and revised IPI (R-IPI) which was reported by the study group of British Columbia. Various numbers of extranodal sites were analyzed for further stratification and we set E-IPI as the IPI when the number of extranodal sites is stratified in ≤2 vs >2. Results: In the univariate analysis, the number of extranodal sites (≤2 vs >2) was a significant prognostic factor for complete response (CR) (p=0.04), event-free survival (EFS) (p=0.01) and overall survival (OS) (p<0.001). Age was also significant for EFS (p=0.03). When the number of extranodal site was stratified differently (0 vs >0, or ≤1 vs >1), these were not associated with CR, EFS and OS. On the multivariate analysis, the number of extranodal sites (≤2 vs >2) remained significant for EFS (p<0.01, HR 2.6) and OS (p<0.01, HR 3.5). The standard IPI identified 3 risk groups with 2-year EFS; 68%, 55%, 56% (p=0.17) and 2-year OS; 85%, 68%, 58%, respectively (p=0.04). The R-IPI classified 2 risk groups with 2-year EFS; 65%, 50% (p=0.02) and 2-year OS 76%, 62%, respectively (p=0.04). The E-IPI represented 3 risk groups with 2-year EFS; 79%, 56%, 42% (p=0.01) and 2-year OS; 86%, 70%, 39%, respectively (p=0.001). The patient group with survival of less than 50% was only recognized by E-IPI. Conclusions: The number of extranodal sites (≤2 vs >2) is the most significant prognostic factor of EFS and OS. Although all three indices remain predictive, E-IPI is the best model to identify the prognostic group in this cohort with stage III/IV DLBCL treated with R-CHOP.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Prognostic role of insulin-like growth factor receptor-1 (IGFR-1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) expression in small cell lung cancer

e22155

Background: Insulin-like growth factor receptor-1 (IGFR-1) is a cellular membrane receptor overexpressed in many tumor cell lines and in some human tumors that seems to play a critical role in anti-apoptosis by enhancing cell survival. Also, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) was reported to be a growth suppressor in variable pathways. Purpose of this study was to evaluate the state IGFR-1 and IGFBP-3 expression in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and its prognostic value. Methods: We analyzed IGFR-1 and IGFBP-3 expression in 194 SCLC tissues specimens by immunohistochemical stain. The relationship between IGFR-1 and IGFBP-3 expression and cliniopathological factors was evaluated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to define its prognostic significance. Results: Median age was 63 years (range 38–85), 84% were men. One hundred-seventeen patients had extensive disease (60.3%), and 77 had limited disease (39.7%). With the median follow- up duration of 49.5 months (24–82), the median progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 8 months (95% CI: 7.3–8.7 months), and 14.4 months (95% CI: 12.7–16 months), respectively, The IGFR-1 expression was observed in 154 of 190 tumor tissues (79.4%), whereas there was no tissue stained by IGFBP-3. Multivariate analysis showed that stage (p<0.001), response to treatment (p<0.001), LDH level (p<0.001) were the independent prognostic factors for PFS, and age (p=0.014), LDH level (p<0.001), and stage (p<0.001) for OS. The IGFR-1 positivity was not associated with PFS or OS in the whole cohort. However, 84% of 115 extensive disease patients showed IGFR-1 positivity. The subgroup analysis revealed that OS was significantly longer for patients with IGFR-1 positive compared to those with IGFR-1 negative in extensive disease (11.3% vs 0% at 2year, p=0.034). Conclusions: These results suggest that IGFR-1 expression may be useful as a prognostic marker in patients with extensive disease of SCLC.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Predictive role of 18F-FDG-PET/CT 1 month before and after hypofractionated stereotactic body radiation therapy for stage I non-small cell lung cancer

7569

Background: To know the predictive role of 18F-FDG-PET/CT 1month before and after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: Between 2004 and 2007, 20 patients received SBRT with 48 Gy for 4 consecutive days and checked two times of FDG- PET/CT and chest CT with contrast-enhancement at 1 month before and after SBRT. Change of maximal SUV (SUVmax) on FDG-PET/CT and the longest tumor diameter on chest CT before and after SBRT was measured. Patients only with high FDG uptake, SUVmax 3.0 or above, on FDG-PET/CT before SBRT and tumor diameter below 5 cm were analyzed in this study. Change of tumor diameter was classified to PR (partial response), SD (stable disease), and DP (disease progression) as RECIST criteria and change of SUVmax was described as % change. Chest CT was checked at every 3 or 6 months during follow-up. Results: Mean time intervals from SBRT to FDG-PET/CT and chest CT were 32 and 30 days respectively. Mean longest tumor diameter was changed from 2.59 cm (1.36–3.93) to 2.17 cm (1.18–3.41), and its reduction rate was -16.2%. By RECIST criteria, 4 patients showed PR, 15 patients showed SD, and other 1 patient showed DP. Mean decrease rate of SUVmax on FDG-PET/CT was -52.1% and its mean value was changed from 7.1 (3.2–13.1) to 3.4 (0.3–9.8). Median follow-up time was 16 months. Local tumor progression developed in 2 (10%) patients and time to progression was 3.4, 6.1 months. Tumor responses on post-SBRT chest CT were PR in 1 and SD in the other 1 patient, and SUVmax changes were -31.9%, -25.5% in each. Most of patients showing no response, SD or DP, didn't recur after SBRT, and so chest CT at 1 month could not predict actuarial tumor response. On the contrary to chest CT, no patients showing SUVmax decreases over 40% experienced tumor progression after SBRT. High decrease rate of SUVmax over 40% decrease on FDG-PET/CT 1 month after SBRT could warrant good actuarial local tumor control earlier. Conclusions: Change of SUVmax on FDG-PET/CT 1 month before and after SBRT could predict actuarial local tumor control of stage I NSCLC earlier and 1 month after SBRT was adequate timing for the earlier evaluation of tumor response.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase II randomized trial of bortezomib (B) plus irinotecan (I) or B with addition of I at progression in recurrent (R) or metastatic (M) squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) (E1304): A trial of the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group

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Background: B, inhibits activation of NF- κβ and inhibits growth of SCCHN cell lines. NF-κβ dysregulation contributes to chemoresistance, including I. Pretreatment with B increases tumor sensitivity to I in vitro. Methods: Eligibility: 0–1 prior chemo regimens, ECOG PS 0–1. Pts randomized to B 1.3 mg/m2 IV d 1, 4, 8, 11 and I 125 mg/m2 IV d 1, 8 every 21 days (Arm 1) or B with addition of I at time of progression (Arm 2). Primary endpoint was response rate (RR) using RECIST and Simon's optimal 2-stage design. Results: 62 pts analyzable (Arm 1, N = 23; Arm 2, N = 39) of 71 enrolled . Pt. characteristics: median age 61 yrs., ECOG PS 1 - 53 %, and 71% had prior chemo. To date, RR (all PRs) 13% Arm 1 and 3% Arm 2 with SD 17% Arm 1 and 23% Arm 2. However, 3 patients remain on active therapy in Arm 2 and PFS and updated RR will be reported. 7 patients (including 3 pts on Arm 2) received 6–10 cycles of therapy. No responses in all 11 analyzable pts in Arm 2 with I added at progression. Median OS 9.1 months - Arm 1 and 7.3 months - Arm 2. Toxicity of B + I (125 mg/m2): grade 3/ 4 neutropenia (31%), vomiting (15%), diarrhea (15%), dehydration (23%). Grade 5 toxicity in 3 pts, 2 possibly related to therapy. Trial amended to decrease I to 90 mg/m2 3 patients (33%) - grade 3 / 4 diarrhea; no grade 3/ 4 neutropenia or grade 5 toxicities. Arm 2: grade 3 / 4 fatigue (15%). Conclusions: B alone is well tolerated. To date, RR low but prolonged stable disease noted in some pts. B in combination with I is a toxic regimen with disappointing activity.

[Table: see text]

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis of gastric cancer: Multicenter retrospective analysis of 54 cases

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Background: Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis occurs in approximately 5% of patients with cancer. The most common cancers involving the leptomeninges are breast and lung cancer. However, gastric adenocarcinoma has been rarely reported with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LMC). Methods: We analyzed 54 cases of cytological confirmed gastric LMC at 4 institutions from 1994 to 2007. Results: Male to female ratio was 1.5:1. Median age of these patients was 49 years. The majority of patients had advanced disease at the initial diagnosis of gastric cancer. The clinical or pathologic TNM stages of the primary gastric cancer were IV in 38 patients (70%). The median interval from the diagnosis of the primary malignancy to the diagnosis of LMC was 6.3 months (range, 0 - 73.1 months). Of the initial endoscopic finding available 45 patients, Bormann type III and IV were 23 (51%) and 15 (33%) patients, respectively. Headache (85%) and nausea/vomiting (58%) were most common presenting symptoms of LMC. The intrathecal (IT) chemotherapy was administered to 36 patients - mainly with methotraxate alone (59%) or combination with ara- C/hydrocortisone (41%). Median IT treatment number was 7 (range, 1–18). Concomitant radiotherapy or chemotherapy was done in 25 patients and 10 patients, respectively. 17 patients (46%) were achieved cytological negative conversion. Median OS duration from diagnosis of LMC was 6.7 weeks (95% CI; 4.3–9.1 weeks). Clinically, initial advanced stage was predictive value of poor prognosis (P=0.009). But, Cytology negative conversion was predictive value of relatively longer survival duration (P=0.005). And, not only IT chemotherapy but also intravenous chemotherapy had been shown improvement of survival duration (P=0.010, P=0.005, respectively). Conclusions: Although gastric LMC has dismal prognosis, IT and IV chemotherapy could be help to extend survival duration of gastric LMC.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Cytoplasmic expression of HuR and cyclooxygenase-2 expression in colon cancer

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Background: HuR, human family embryonic-lethal abnormal vision-like protein, can bind to mRNAs and stabilizes them in the cytoplasm, resulting in more efficient translation. HuR is predominantly present in the nucleus and shuttles between the nucleus and cytoplasm. The mRNA of cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) is stabilized by HuR in several cancers, including breast, stomach, lung and brain. Methods: We investigated the expression and its cellular location of HuR, and Cox-2 expression in 79 colorectal cancer patients with immunohistochemistry, and evaluated the biological implications in colorectal carcinoma. Results: Nuclear HuR expression was observed in 59 (74.7%) and cytoplasmic HuR expression was seen in 25 (31.6%). Cox-2 immunoreactivity was noted in 42 (53%). The expression of cytoplasmic HuR was significantly associated with Cox-2 expression (p=0.004). And cytoplasmic expression of HuR showed correlation with lymphatic invasion (p=0.025) and lymph node metastasis (p=0.027). Nuclear HuR showed no correlation with Cox-2 expression or other clinicopathological parameters examined. Conclusions: These results suggest that cytoplasmic translocation of HuR is associated with Cox-2 expression in some colorectal carcinoma.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase II trial of neoadjuvant fixed dose rate (FDR) gemcitabine with capecitabine (GX) combination chemotherapy in locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma (LAPA)

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Background: To determine the efficacy and safety of fixed dose rate (FDR) gemcitabine and capecitaibne (GX) combination chemotherapy for locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma Methods: Patients with histologically confirmed LAPA were eligible for this prospective phase II trial. Dynamic pancreas/pelvic CT, MRI and FDG-PET were undertaken to assess the resectability. EUS was also performed as needed basis. ‘Borderline resectable (BR)’ and ‘unresectable (UR)’ criteria developed by our pancreatico-biliary multidisciplinary management team (PBMMT) and NCCN criteria were used. After confirmation of resectability, patients received 3 cycles of FDR gemcitabine 1,250 mg/m2 on D1 and D8 and capecitabine 950 mg/m2 from D1-D14 every 3 weeks. Thereafter, staging was repeated and patients underwent surgery if the disease was not unresectable. For patients with R0 resection, additional 6 cycles of GX were administered. For patients with R1 resection, chemoradiotherapy (CRT) (54 Gy over 5 weeks with concurrent 5-FU and leucovorin or capecitabine) followed by FDR-GX was administered. Patients with stable or better response to chemotherapy but assessed unresectable at reassessment received additional chemotherapy up to 9 cycles followed by CRT. Results: Between August 2006 and July 2008, 38 eligible patients (14 with BR and 24 with UR based on NCCN criteria; 29 with BR and 9 with UR based on our PBMMT criteria) entered on this study. The median age was 61 yo (42–76) and 71% had cT4 disease. The response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy was PR in 6 (16%), SD in 26 (68%) and PD in 3 (8%). Metabolic response was achieved in 20 patients (53%) with 2 metabolic CR out of 31 evaluable patients. Grade 3 or worse adverse effects were mainly HFS (n=5) and gastrointestinal (n=3) with no grade 4 in severity. Surgery was performed in 9 patients (24.0%, R0=8, R1=1, 6 in NCCN-BR and 3 in NCCN-UR, 9 in PBMMT-BR) and five patients refused surgery although their diseases seemed not to be unresectable. The median PFS was 9.4 months (95% CI, 8.3–10.4) and estimated median OS was 13.5 months (95% CI, 12.4- 14.5). Conclusions: FDR-GX was effective as neoadjuvnat chemotherapy in LAPA with favorable toxicity profile.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Interobserver and interlaboratory variability of mismatch repair protein expression in ovarian tumors

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Background: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for mismatch repair (MMR) protein (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6) expression has been a useful strategy for identifying tumors with MMR deficiency. However, despite its wide use, interpretation of results suffers from poor reproducibility. Methods: To assess inter-observer (IO) and inter-laboratory (IL) variability of MMR protein expression, 41 epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) samples were arrayed in triplicate for construction of a tissue microarray (TMA). Six slides were made from this donor TMA block, of which 3 were stained at the Moffitt Cancer Center (MCC) and 3 were stained at the University of South Florida (USF), using different lab procedures. IHC for MMR protein expression was performed using the avidin-biotin-complex (ABC) method with appropriate controls. Subsequently, all slides were independently scored for protein expression by two pathologists. The Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC) value was computed to evaluate IO and IL concordance, with a value >0.75 indicating excellent concordance. Results: The CCC value for the IO analysis was 0.95 (for MCC-stained slides; 95% C.I.: 0.89–0.98) and 0.85 (for USF-stained slides; 95% C.I.: 0.66, 0.93), indicating excellent concordance. The CCC value for IL analysis was 0.53 (95% C.I.: 0.37–0.66). Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that variability in IHC protocols may contribute to the interpretation of IHC results. Our data suggest that when pathologists are given the same slide, there is excellent agreement between two observers; however, when the same slides are stained in a separate laboratory using the same method (ABC) but different protocol, there may be considerable disagreement. These findings are of great clinical significance due to the widespread use of IHC as diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic tools in cancer care.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A UGT1A1 genotype-directed phase I study of irinotecan (CPT-11) combined with fixed dose of capecitabine in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC)

2554

Background: The risk of severe toxicity of CPT-11 can be in part explained by polymorphism of UGT1A1. The most common polymorphism in Whites is UGT1A1*28. UGT1A1*6 is another common polymorphism in Asians. We designed a phase I study to investigate UGT1A1 genotype-directed maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of CPT-11 plus fixed dose of capecitabine in patients (pts) with Korean mCRC. Methods: Pts with mCRC screened UGT1A1 genotyping (*28 and *6) and were stratified into one of 3 groups according to the number of defective allele (DA): 0 (none of *28 or *6 allele), 1(only one of *28 or *6 allele), and 2 (*28/*28, *6/*6, or double heterozygous for *28 and *6). The dose of CPT-11 was escalated as following: Level -I:200, I:240, II:280, III:320, IV: 350, V: 380 mg/m2 (IV, once every 3 weeks). Capecitabine (1,000 mg/m2 PO BID) was administered on days 2–15 every 3 weeks. Dose limiting toxicity (DLT) and pharmacokinetic analyses was determined at cycle 1. Results: Forty-two pts, median age 50 years, EOOG performance ≤1 were recruited: 0 DA group (18 pts), 1 DA (18), and 2 DA (6). In 0 DA group, two of six pts experienced DLT at 380 mg/m2 with grade III asthenia (1 pts) and febrile neutropenia (1). In 1 DA group, all of two pts experienced DLT at 380 mg/m2 with grade III asthenia. In 2 DA group, two of three pts experienced DLT at 240 mg/m2 with febrile neutropenia (1) and grade IV neutropenia (1). The MTD was defined as CPT-11 350 mg/m2 for pts with 0 and 1 DA group and CPT-11 200 mg/m2 for pts with 2 DA group, with capecitabine. Median SN-38G/SN-38 AUC was 10.45, 8.78, and 1.66 in pts with 0, 1, and 2 DA group, respectively. Conclusions: CPT-11 dosing by UGT1A1*28 and *6 genotypes is feasible in Korean pts with mCRC. A dose of CPT-11 350 mg/m2 IV for pts with 0 and 1 DA group and CPT-11 200 mg/m2 for pts with 2 DA group, with capecitabine every 3 weeks, is recommended for further study.

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Effect of interval between diagnosis of advanced cancer and cessation of active anti-cancer treatment on survival in terminally ill cancer patients

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Background: Although various prognostic factors have been proposed to predict survival in terminally ill cancer patients, accurate prognostication is still a challenging task for oncologists. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the time interval between diagnosis of advanced cancer and cessation of active anti-cancer treatment (ATP; active treatment period) can predict survival in terminally ill cancer patients. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 79 patients with advanced (recurrent or metastatic) cancer who were determined as terminal stage, namely cessation of active anti-cancer treatment and transition to palliative care, by attending oncologists. ATP and other known prognostic factors including clinical symptoms and signs, performance status, laboratory tests, and clinical prediction of survival (CPS) were analyzed. Results: Of the 79 patients, 46 were male (58%) and 33 were female (42%) with a median age of 60 years (range, 21–82). Median overall survival after being diagnosed with advanced cancer was 11.6 months (95% confidence interval (CI), 8.02–15.18), and survival after being determined as terminal stage was 1.9 months (95% CI, 1.38–2.42). According to 3 ATP categories (< 3months, 3–12 months, and >12 months), terminal stage survival were 1.0 month, 1.8 months, and 3.6 months, respectively (p=0.002). On multivariate analysis, short ATP, non-colorectal cancer, fatigue, and Karnofsky performance status less than 50 were significantly associated with a poor prognosis. Conclusions: Our study suggests that ATP is an independent prognostic factor for survival in terminally ill cancer patients who cannot receive active anti-cancer treatment anymore. Future prognostic models should include ATP as a prognostic variable.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Preoperative chemoradiation and postoperative adjuvant tetrathiomolybdate for patients with resectable esophageal cancer

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Background: Tetrathiomolybdate (TM) is an oral copper chelator. Copper is necessary for blood vessel growth, and so TM functions as an antiangiogenic agent. Methods: Pts with resectable esophageal cancer were treated at the University of Michigan with chemoradiation followed by surgery, and then 2 years of TM. Chemoradiation was cisplatin 60 mg/m2 on days #1 and 22, paclitaxel 60 mg/m2 on days #1, 8, 15, and 22, and radiation 1.5 Gy fractions b.i.d. x 3 weeks to a total of 45 Gy. Transhiatal esophagectomy was performed on approximately day #50. TM 20 mg p.o. q.d. was started approximately 4 weeks post-op, and continued for 2 years. Doses were adjusted to maintain the ceruloplasmin level between 5 and 15. Results: Between 1/23/02 and 1/24/06, 69 pts were enrolled. Pt characteristics: males - 62 (90%), females - 7 (10%); median age - 60 (range 42–74); adenocarcinoma - 56 (81%), squamous cell carcinoma 13 (19%). The chemoradiation was well tolerated: grade 3 leukopenia in 15 pts (22%), and 17 pts (25%) required feeding tubes. 66 pts went to surgery. 61 pts had a complete resection; 4 pts had metastases discovered at surgery, and 1 pt had extensive positive margins. Histologic complete response rate was 10%. 21 pts never received TM because of metastases noted in the peri-operative period, long post-op recovery time, or pt refusal. 48 pts started TM after surgery and it was well tolerated. Grade 3 toxicities were diarrhea -2 (3%), nausea - 2 (3%), dizziness - 2 (3%). 13 pts completed the full 24 mos of treatment, 12 completed 10–23 mos, 15 completed 2–8 mos, and 8 completed only 1 month or less. 27 pts have had disease recurrence, the majority (23 of the 27) of which was distant. Current status of pts with median follow-up time of 55 months: 25 alive and disease-free, 1 alive with disease, and 43 have died. 3-year survival probability is 47% (95% CI 35%-58.6%). 3-year recurrence-free probability is 51% (95% CI 38%- 62.7%). Conclusions: TM is an antiangiogenic agent which is fairly well tolerated. Prolonged adjuvant treatment over 2 years is difficult but not impossible to complete. Disease-free survival and overall survival are promising when compared to historical controls treated with a very similar chemoradiation regimen without TM in the past at the University of Michigan.

[Table: see text]

Use of peripheral blood genomic markers whose expression levels reflect that of breast tumor genomic markers to predict drug treatment and sensitivity

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Background: Tumor gene expression signatures have been used to predict drug response, and we have previously reported drug-induced signatures to be more informative than the untreated baseline signatures. However, repeated tumor sampling during treatment is not feasible for most patients. We studied peripheral mononuclear cell (PBMC) gene expression levels in association with tumor gene expression levels in an attempt to identify peripheral blood markers that may serve as more accessible surrogates to predict drug treatment and response. Methods: Chemonaive breast cancer patients were treated with an alternating sequential regimen of doxorubicin and docetaxel and randomized to start with either drug. RNA from primary tumor before and 3 weeks, and from PBMC before and 24 hours after the first cycle of each drug was hybridized on the Affymetrix HG-U133+2 array containing 54,675 probe sets. Results: Pre- and post-treatment tumors from 47 patients were studied, including 35 with paired PBMC samples. 230 pre- and 85 posttreatment PBMC probe sets showed strong correlation in expression level (Pearson correlation coefficient >0.9) with the corresponding pre- and posttreatment tumor probe set, and included genes involved in transcription regulation and binding. Of the 975 tumor probe sets whose changes distinguished doxorubicin from docetaxel treatment, 12 corresponding PBMC probe sets were identified (p < 0.001) whose changes at 24 hours distinguished the two treatments with 77% accuracy. Of the 1,081 and 1,526 tumor probe sets whose changes predicted treatment response to doxorubicin and docetaxel, 19 and 15 informative PBMC probe sets predicted response to each drug with 100% and 80% accuracy, and included TNF receptor associated protein 1 and trefoil factor 1 for doxorubicin-, and folliculin and dynein for docetaxel-response. When the PBMC probe sets were validated in an independent test set treated with docetaxel (n = 23), 87% was correctly classified as docetaxel-treated, while 89% of non-responders clustered together. Conclusions: Peripheral blood contains genomic markers whose expression levels closely reflect that of breast tumor markers, and may be promising as surrogates to predict drug treatment and sensitivity.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.